Q.) What is the ruling of the Shariah regarding the use of perfumes or
deodorants containing alcohol? Is it Halal, Makrooh, or Haram? [Abu Abdullah. Dar
Al-Madinah Islamic Society, CA]

A.) The alcohol used in perfumes or deodorants is normally a synthetic alcohol,
which is not impure (Najis) according to the prevailing view of Imam Abu Hanifa and his
followers. Therefore, the external use of this type of alcohol is not Haram. However, its
oral intake is still impermissible except in the cases of necessary medication.